Pangbourne College to join Mill Hill Education Group

Pangbourne College will join the Mill Hill Education Group in a move that aims to drive educational growth, deepen collaboration, and broaden future ambitions.

The merger comes after a thorough review by the college’s governors and head, who determined that Mill Hill offered the strongest alignment in values, heritage, and long-term vision.

Oliver Knight, head of Pangbourne College, said: “This is an exciting and significant moment in the history of Pangbourne College.

“We are proud of the school we are today, the strength of our community and the exceptional opportunities we provide for our pupils.

“Joining Mill Hill Education Group is not about changing who we are; it is about building on our strengths and creating even more opportunities for our pupils and staff.”

He emphasised that Pangbourne would maintain its distinct identity within the group.

Mr Knight said: “Pangbourne will remain proudly Pangbourne – with the same values, traditions, adventurous spirit, leadership culture and close-knit community that make this such a special place.

“We will continue to place our pupils at the heart of every decision we make, while ensuring that each individual is known, valued and supported to fulfil their potential.”

The partnership will give Pangbourne access to group-wide expertise in curriculum development, wellbeing, and teaching innovation, as well as expanded enrichment programmes, leadership opportunities, and collaborative projects across the group’s network.

It will also support the professional development of staff and further enhance facilities and educational provision at the college.

Patrick Roberts, chair of governors at Pangbourne College, said: “The governors approached this decision from a position of confidence and ambition for the future.

“Pangbourne is a successful and highly regarded school and we were fortunate to have the time and opportunity to undertake a detailed process to identify the right long-term partner.”

The Mill Hill Education Group, which educates around 4,200 pupils across its UK and international schools, is committed to helping each institution within its network retain its own identity and culture.

Antony Spencer, chief executive of the Mill Hill Education Group, welcomed Pangbourne as a valuable addition.

Mr Spencer said: “Pangbourne College has a distinctive educational philosophy, an outstanding reputation and a strong sense of purpose.

“Its commitment to developing young people through academic rigour, exploration, community and leadership aligns closely with our own educational values.”

Day-to-day operations at Pangbourne will remain unchanged, with Mr Knight and the senior leadership team continuing to oversee decisions.

The merger, described as a values-led partnership, is designed to strengthen both institutions’ ability to offer educational excellence now and in the future.